This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Vrushik Visavadiya
We use Git every day — but most of us stick to just
add,commit, andpush.
Here are small, daily-use improvements that can make your Git workflow smoother starting today.
1⃣ Undo the Last Commit (Without Losing Changes)
Made a typo in your commit message or forgot a file?
Instead of making a new commit:
git commit --amend
Pro Tip: Add --no-edit if you just want to keep the same message.
2⃣ See What You’re About to Commit
Before committing, check your staged changes:
git diff --staged
No more “Oops, I didn’t mean to commit that file!” moments.
3⃣ Quickly Switch Back to the Last Branch
git checkout -
or (modern way):
git switch -
Great for jumping between two branches while fixing something quickly.
4⃣ Save Work-in-Progress Without Committing
Got interrupted? Use stash:
git stash
# ...do something else...
git stash pop
You’ll get your work back exactly as it was.
5⃣ Pull with Rebase for a Cleaner History
Instead of mixing merge commits in your history:
git pull --rebase
This keeps your commits in a straight line — much easier to read.
6⃣ Avoid Typing Long Commands with Aliases
git config --global alias.s "status -sb"
git config --global alias.lg "log --oneline --graph --decorate"
Now:
git s
git lg
Your fingers will thank you. 
7⃣ View Who Changed a Line in a File
git blame filename.js
Perfect for finding the commit (and person 
) behind that mysterious code.
8⃣ Ignore Files You Forgot to Ignore
git rm --cached file.log
echo "file.log" >> .gitignore
Now Git will stop tracking it — but it stays in your local folder.
Final Thought
You don’t have to memorize 200+ Git commands —
just a few well-chosen habits can save you hours every week.
Which of these do you use daily?
Drop your favorite Git tip in the comments so we can all improve together!
This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Vrushik Visavadiya